Committee on Ministry

The Committee on Ministry is probably the least known and most misunderstood of all congregational committees. It is a five member committee that meets each month with the Minister and Assistant Minister. Two members are chosen by the Senior Minister, one by the Board of Directors and two are elected by the congregation. Members serve two years and overlap one another for a continuity of knowledge and function. Each month our names and contact numbers are printed on the back of the Octagram.

That is WHO we are. The Committee’s function, or WHAT and WHY, is set forth in the UU by-laws. I’ll try to make this short and then let you know more of what we do and why:

1. We continually assess the nature and scope of the Church’s ministerial needs and articulate those needs to the Ministers.

2. We interpret to the congregation the nature and scope of the work of the Ministers.

3. We aid the Ministers in carrying on an effective ministry by being available for counsel and responding to cares and concerns the Ministers or their families may have.

4. We try to keep the Ministers advised concerning conditions within the congregation in order to strengthen and improve relationships.

5. We work with the Ministers on their continuing education programs, sabbatical and any professional development they plan and advise the Board and congregation of such plans.

6. We work with the Ministers, Board, and appropriate committees concerning both the general terms and compensation package of any ministerial contract.

7. We consult with the Ministers on candidates that may be recommended for any other open ministerial position. The above is technically what the Committee is charged to do. In addition, we try to be an advocate for the Minister and Assistant Minister. We listen to their concerns and try to help where we can. Sometimes we forget that ministers are people too. They give and give but they have needs like you and I have. In that regard the Committee tries to support them or just listen if that is what is required.

The Committee has a goal and a shared vision with the Ministers that directly relate to number one, above.

We want to help open communications with the Ministers and among the members of the congregation. Our purpose is to foster a caring, loving congregation; a congregation that supports one another, takes care of one another and encourages the best from each other. In order to facilitate a shared ministry with a more open congregation the Committee asks for your help. Communicate with us. In every effort we undertake in life we all need feedback. We need to hear honestly how we are doing or we may assume that things are fine as they are. Our Committee wants to help Abhi and Millie do the best job they can just as they want to do their very best. For this to be accomplished we need your input.

If you wish to send us an email to make suggestions, you can anonymously if desired. We also appreciate letters or notes and will keep your comments confidential. Messages can be left safely in the Committee on Ministry mailbox. You are also encouraged to seek us out at the UUC or call one of us directly.

If you have something that is bugging you or want to say what you think about an issue but are not sure who to go to, our Committee will direct your message to the appropriate person. Of course if you want to say that all is wonderful, perfect, glorious just as it is, we want to know that as well. Please help us grow our congregation in the best possible way. UUC is our spiritual home; it is what you and I make it.